French parliament-approved commission to probe sexual abuse in film industry
The French parliament has given the go-ahead for the establishment of a commission to investigate allegations of misconduct and sexual violence within the country's film, audiovisual, performing arts, advertising, and fashion industries. This decision is a response to actor and filmmaker Judith Godrèche's appeal. Godrèche is a prominent figure in France's reinvigorated #MeToo movement who recently went public with her accusations of sexual assault against directors Benoît Jacquot and Jacques Doillon.
Godrèche's plea was approved by majority votes
Godrèche first proposed the idea of an investigative commission in February and reiterated her call in March during speeches to the French Senate and parliament. These speeches were delivered at the request of their delegations for women's rights and children's rights. Francesca Pasquini, a representative for The Ecologists party, supported Godrèche's plea and proposed the creation of the commission. The proposal was approved by parliament with a majority of 52 votes on Thursday morning.
Commission's goals and responsibilities outlined
A parliamentary document detailed the commission's tasks, which, according to Deadline, include evaluating the circumstances of minors employed in sectors such as cinema, audiovisual, performing arts, fashion, and advertising. The commission will also examine instances of violence committed against adults within these industries. It aims to identify systems and shortcomings that allow abuse and violence to persist unchecked. Furthermore, it will establish responsibilities for organizations active in these sectors to protect their employees in the future.
More about Godrèche, her battle against Jacquot
After denouncing her past relationship with Jacquot, Godrèche filed rape charges against the director in February. She was with him in the late 1980s when she was just 14 and Jacquot was 40. The Beggars actor said her daughter Tess Barthélemy's teenage years made her realize the troubling nature of her relationship with Jacquot—"If a 40-year-old man approached my daughter, I would kill him." The helmer has denied the allegations, claiming Godrèche was 15—the legal age of consent in France.
